Such are the insuperable objections to both plans: and
what is to be done on this occasion? I confess I am at a
loss. I foresee the difficulty on a consolidated plan of
drawing a representation from so extensive a continent to
one place. What can be the inducements for gentlemen to
come 600 miles to a national legislature? The expense
would at least amount to £100,000. This however can be
no conclusive objection if it eventuates in an extinction of
state governments. The burthen of the latter would be
saved, and the expense then would not be great. State distinctions
would be found unnecessary, and yet I confess,
to carry government to the extremities, the state governments
reduced to corporations, and with very limited powers,
might be necessary, and the expense of the national
government become less burthensome.

Yet, I confess, I see great difficulty of drawing forth a [Volume 1, Page 401]
good representation. What, for example, will be the inducements
for gentlemen of fortune and abilities to leave
their houses and business to attend annually and long? It
cannot be the wages; for these, I presume, must be small.
Will not the power, therefore, be thrown into the hands of
the demagogue or middling politician, who, for the sake
of a small stipend and the hopes of advancement, will offer
himself as a candidate, and the real men of weight and
influence, by remaining at home, add strength to the state
governments? I am at a loss to know what must be done--I
despair that a republican form of government can remove
the difficulties. Whatever may be my opinion, I
would hold it however unwise to change that form of government.